Amigami is proud to present a new line of brilliant patchwork purses, handmade by local artist Autumn Bender! These totes are the ultimate in shabby chic, featuring colorful patterns and an over-sized design that makes them a truly one-of-a-kind fashion statement. Designed and sewn by Autumn, these bags are completely eco-friendly — constructed from 100% re-purposed fabric.

The first available is a large satchel made primarily of warm-toned upholstery fabric, with a soft blue contrasting daisy-inspired liner and five gorgeous floral accents. I adore the color scheme — the beige & rusty tones of the bag’s body makes the floral design pop off the canvas, bringing the whole purse together.

The second has become known as the “Green Apple” purse, and is constructed from (you guessed it!) the upper portion of a pair of grass green corduroy pants. This bag retains its original belt loops, four fully functioning pockets, and even an additional zipper pocket for the fly! But what really makes this bag special is the pair of patchwork apple trees which really add a whimsical flair to the purse’s overall design. Lined by royal purple paisleys, and finished with sandstone-colored dual straps, this bag is a total eye-catcher.

With their large size and durability, either of these bags would be perfect for travel, a day at the pool or beach, or even everyday living. Both of these purses are currently for sale in my Etsy shop, and Autumn is hard at work, so keep watching for more one-of-a-kind designs!

I love showcasing the artwork of others, and even though I’ve already spoke on our visit to Rogers Community Auction, I had to make special note of the wonderful jewelry I acquired there.

A mother-daughter team stationed down the market avenue had a fantastic array of beaded stone jewelry. From rings to necklaces, they had four tables featuring a plethora of semi-precious stones and styles. Having what seems to be a genetic predisposition for turquoise, I gravitated towards a perfect-for-summer chunky bangle and matching ring. The bracelet features 5 intersecting bands of pale blue turquoise on elastic (for easy wear & removal). The matching ornate ring showcases a dazzling cabochon set in brilliant sterling silver. Both the mother & daughter were extremely approachable about their products & techniques, and I thank them for the excellent deal they gave me on the set.

Ramon went on several hardware outings throughout the day , and returned with a gorgeous pendant for me. It showcases a perfectly intricate mini dried flower display, in shades of antiqued gold and mauve, encapsulated under a glass dome within a metal frame. The reverse side holds a mirror of matching proportion, and hangs from a 24″ long complementary chain.

I absolutely love this necklace, but there’s one setback: I’m allergic to nickel & most forms of metal. Attempting to coat the chain in clear nail polish would ultimately be fruitless, so unless I find another method of combating my allergy, I may regrettably have to exchange the chain for a hypo-allergenic alternative. If you have any suggestions, please let me know.

And finally, our market neighbor Denny, from Cambridge, and his friends had an assortment of goods, including some very special jewelry. We spoke with Denny and his daughter at length, on a multitude of interesting topics – they were both absolute pleasures. He told us about his sister, who was an artist & crafter in her own right, until she unfortunately passed of cancer a few years ago. He had recently rediscovered some of her beaded jewelry, and of course I had to commemorate his sister & our meeting. The medicine pouch I purchased is stunning, with a red & white heart theme, accented by rich gold. Denny also told us of multiple herbal cures of which he is knowledgeable, including the potent Essiac Tea, which aided his sister & countless others through the hardest of times. Denny was SO generous to share this information with us, we feel obligated to use it & pass it on. Thank you Denny & Vanessa, as well as the entire Rogers Market Community, for all your great company & hospitality.